Hadith #6441

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. Peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "اَلاِعْتِبارُ يُثْمِرُ العِصْمَةَ۔" This can be translated as,

Taking example yields [the fruit of] inerrancy.

Let us delve into the meaning of this statement in light of the Quran.

The word (al-i'tibar) "اَلاِعْتِبارُ" refers to the act of taking example or drawing lessons from the experiences and teachings of others. It is a process of reflection and contemplation, where one seeks guidance and wisdom from the actions and words of those who are righteous and knowledgeable. This concept is emphasized in the Quran in various verses.

Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) encourages Muslims to take lessons from the stories and examples mentioned in the Quran. In Surah Yusuf (12:111), Allah says,

There was certainly in their stories a lesson for those of understanding. Never was the Qur'an a narration invented, but a confirmation of what was before it and a detailed explanation of all things and guidance and mercy for a people who believe.

This verse highlights the importance of reflecting upon the stories of the past and deriving lessons from them.

Furthermore, the word (al-'ismah) "العِصْمَةَ" in the Hadith refers to inerrancy or protection from error. It signifies the state of being safeguarded from mistakes, sins, and deviations. This concept is deeply rooted in the teachings of the Quran.

In Surah Al-A'raf (7:35), Allah mentions the story of Adam (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and how he was tested by Satan. Allah says,

We said, 'O Adam, dwell, you and your wife, in Paradise and eat therefrom in [ease and] abundance from wherever you will. But do not approach this tree, lest you be among the wrongdoers.'

This verse highlights the importance of adhering to divine commandments and avoiding the path of error.

Now, let us reflect on the meaning of the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ). By stating that

Taking example yields [the fruit of] inerrancy,

Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) emphasizes the transformative power of learning from the experiences and teachings of others.

When we observe the lives of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), the Ahl al-Bayt, and the righteous companions, we find exemplary models of faith, knowledge, and righteousness. By studying their actions, words, and virtues, we can gain valuable insights and guidance for our own lives.

For instance, when we examine the life of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), we find numerous examples of his compassion, patience, and justice. By emulating his noble character, we can strive to become better Muslims and contribute positively to society.

Similarly, when we study the life of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), we witness his unparalleled knowledge, wisdom, and bravery. By learning from his teachings and imbibing his qualities, we can enhance our understanding of Islam and become more steadfast in our faith.

Taking example from the righteous individuals mentioned in the Quran and the Hadith not only helps us in acquiring knowledge and guidance but also serves as a means of protection from error and deviation. By following their footsteps, we can safeguard ourselves from the pitfalls of ignorance, arrogance, and sin.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) teaches us the importance of taking example from the righteous individuals who came before us. By reflecting upon their lives, actions, and teachings, we can gain valuable insights, guidance, and protection from error. Let us strive to be diligent students of our faith and seek inspiration from the noble examples set by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), the Ahl al-Bayt, and the righteous companions. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the ability to learn from their wisdom and attain the fruit of inerrancy.